This has been quite the breakout year for many under-the-radar indie artists. While some of our other “Best Of” lists this year contain big name acts, I decided to mix the big with the not so big, and compile a list of the top 10 albums that I just couldn’t turn off.

Bear in mind that it pained me to cut this list down to only 10 of the best indie acts, so be sure to also check out these honorable mentions:

Every year I am amazed at some of the new music I hear. There are avenues being explored that open your mind and ears to a whole new way to appreciate modern music. I can only wait with bated breath for 2013′s releases to unravel.